Deputy proposes shared database for China's auto industry

As Chinese automakers accelerate their global expansion amid rising domestic competition and enhanced brand competitiveness, industry leaders are calling for unified strategies to tackle international challenges. Zhu Huarong, a deputy from Chongqing to the 14th National People's Congress and chairman of State-owned automaker Changan Automobile, proposed establishing a shared database to streamline internationalization efforts, reduce resource duplication and boost adaptability in foreign markets.

Zhu highlighted systemic hurdles facing Chinese automakers that are expanding abroad, including fragmented regulations, diverse climate and road conditions and cultural differences.

"Repeated investments by individual companies in researching international markets lead to significant resource waste," he noted. "A unified platform would enhance collective efficiency and risk resilience."

He suggested that China build a shared database covering international policies, regulations, climate patterns, infrastructure and cultural practices. Such a resource would allow automakers to access critical insights without redundant research.

Government bodies, research institutions, and industry players would contribute data to the platform with a "credit system" that rewards entities for sharing high-value information. Companies accessing the database would pay via credits to encourage participation.

Besides data sharing, Zhu emphasized the need for tailored consulting to guide market entry strategies. The platform could also issue real-time alerts for geopolitical shifts, regulatory changes, or economic risks to help automakers safeguard international assets.

Statistics from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers show that China shipped 5.85 million units in 2024, retaining its position as the world's largest auto exporter for the second year in a row.